SUNY Chancellor expected to recommend interim presidents for north country campuses

POTSDAM - Lingering questions about the leadership of two north country colleges could be answered early next week.

SUNY Chancellor Nancy L. Zimpher could make her recommendations for the interim presidencies at SUNY Canton and SUNY Potsdam during the board of trustees meeting Monday and Tuesday in Purchase.

Obviously, we just watch and wait, but definitely the campus has been told that there might be a recommendation for the interim presidency at the next meeting, SUNY Potsdam spokeswoman Alexandra M. Jacobs said.

Earlier this month, potential candidates for each campuss vacancy were revealed. Ms. Zimpher is expected to name former SUNY Fredonia President Dennis L. Hefner to the interim presidency at SUNY Potsdam.

At SUNY Canton, former Provost Jeremy D. Brown was named as a potential recommendation. Mr. Brown, who has kept a home in Canton, recently met with the campuss College Council and administration.

At the time, SUNY officials told both campuses the recommendations would be made next week.

We were told that something might come out of the March board of trustees meeting, but havent heard anything more since, said Gregory E. Kie, SUNY Canton spokesman.

Mr. Hefner would replace John F. Schwaller, who will resign in July after more than seven years leading SUNY Potsdam. Mr. Schwaller has not announced his plans.

Mr. Brown would replace Carli S. Schiffner, who has served as SUNY Cantons interim president since longtime President Joseph L. Kennedy stepped down last year. Ms. Schiffner will take over as vice president of instruction at Wenatchee Valley College, Wenatchee, Wash.

The colleges await permission from Ms. Zimpher to begin their search for a permanent president. Leaders at both schools said permission could come later this year.

Officials at the SUNY chancellors office did not return calls for comment.

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